Introduction
Today, we’re diving into Barrell Vantage, a high-proof, complex blend that’s finished in Mizunara, French, and Toasted American Oak casks. This 114.44-proof whiskey is a blend of bourbons from Indiana, Tennessee, and Kentucky, and while we don’t know exactly which whiskey went into which cask, we’re trusting Barrell’s expertise here. This one hit the market in late 2022, and by 2023, it had built up quite a reputation. Let’s see if it lives up to the hype.
The following review is taken from our episode "Up / Barrel Vantage." Click the link to listen to this review in audio format.
Nose
Brad: This nose is pure deliciousness. Right away, it’s caramel apple—a perfect blend of both flavors—and then some peanuts and pear for depth. The sweetness here is like simple syrup—soft and straightforward. It’s really inviting.
Bob: I’m getting the same notes, plus a little citrus, almost like lime, which adds a hint of tropical brightness. There’s also a dusty oak character that feels complex and familiar, like something from a Will It bottle. Overall, it’s fruity, oaky, and balanced. I love it.
Scores:
- Brad: 9.5/10
- Bob: 9.5/10
Taste
Brad: The palate keeps up the momentum from the nose. I’m tasting apple juice and caramel, plus some nutmeg spice and even hot chocolate powder. And the peanut butter spread note reminds me of Amish Country in Ohio. It’s rich and creamy, hitting all the right spots.
Bob: I get that peanut butter spread, too! It opens with this tart fruit burst, but as it moves to the back, it shifts to herbal and nutty. There’s a slight bitterness at the end, though, which threw me off a bit. The flavors are great, but the balance is just a bit uneven across the palate.
Scores:
- Brad: 9/10
- Bob: 8.5/10
Finish
Brad: The finish is fantastic. I get salted butter, vanilla, and a graham cracker note, with a final pop of cinnamon that adds a nice kick. It lingers beautifully, giving you a solid medium-to-long finish.
Bob: I’d agree on the cinnamon note—it’s like a subtle Fireball candy without the sugary sweetness. For me, it’s not a super long finish, but it’s satisfying. I’d call it a medium-to-long finish as well, though I don’t think it’s the strongest part of the experience.
Scores:
- Brad: 9/10
- Bob: 8/10
Balance
Brad: To me, this is beautifully balanced. There’s a journey from sweetness to saltiness that just works perfectly, and I didn’t get any of the bitterness that threw you off, Bob. This one’s a 10 out of 10 for me on balance.
Bob: I see what you’re saying, Brad, but I had to adjust my score as I went through it. The palate fluctuated a bit, which held me back from giving it a perfect score. But I still think it’s well-crafted overall, so I’m landing at an 8.5.
Scores:
- Brad: 10/10
- Bob: 8.5/10
Value
Brad: Barrell has this listed at $90, though I’ve seen it closer to $85 in a few places. For what you’re getting, I think it’s a great value. There are premium brands that charge double or triple for something of comparable quality. I’m at an 8.5 out of 10.
Bob: I’m right there with you. For $85, this is worth every penny. Barrell just has a knack for consistently releasing high-quality bottles at a fair price. This is definitely one of the best bottles I’ve had in a while, so I’m at an 8.
Scores:
- Brad: 8.5/10
- Bob: 8/10
Final Scores
- Brad: 46.5/50
- Bob: 42.5/50
- Average: 44.5/50
With a final score of 44.5/50 (or, if you prefer, 89/100), Barrell Vantage is hands down one of the best whiskies we’ve tried this season. It’s complex, beautifully balanced, and packs enough punch to keep things interesting from start to finish. A score above 40 is our go-to recommendation to buy a bottle, and Barrell Vantage is well worth picking up if you find it.
